Visitor Economy Booming

Visitor Economy Booming

Visitors Now Worth $31 Billion To Victoria's Economy

The Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) has welcomed the new International and National Visitor Survey results which show tourism now contributes almost $31 billion to the Victorian economy.

The figures mark an increase of $1 billion since last quarter’s results, with regional Victoria recording extraordinary growth in numbers, doubling the regional national average growth rate.

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Victoria Tourism Industry Council Chief Executive Felicia Mariani says promoting tourism in regional areas, like the Great South Coast, is a longstanding focus for the industry, as historically, visitation has primarily centred around Melbourne-based experiences and events.

"We are pleased to see record results for Regional Victoria in key measures, realising our efforts to promote tourism experiences outside of Melbourne and firmly positioning Regional Victoria as a standout in these latest results.”

Melbourne’s tourism growth rate was reported to have signs of slowing in many key measures which Ms Mariani says is a cautionary concern that needs to be watched.

“While Melbourne’s rate of growth has continued to rise, we are seeing signs of slowing, signalling a need to concentrate on creating compelling experiences that will capture the imagination of our interstate visitors and ensure Melbourne stays front and centre in their consideration set.”